The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), in collaboration with Kenya, Denmark, and Germany, and the United Arab Emirates founded a new partnership on Monday, September 4, 2023, pledging to boost renewable energy in Africa.

Kenya’s President William Ruto, who is also head of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), launched the “Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA)” at the first Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi.

At the launch event, President Ruto outlined Kenya’s ambition to achieve 100 percent renewable power by 2030 and to fuel the green industries of the future by 2040. He said, “Our ambition is not in question—it’s how we make this ambition a reality. This journey demands a united front. As leaders across Africa, our strategies must be woven together, tailored to find African solutions to African challenges.”

He then officially launched APRA, stating, “Today we celebrate a new beginning with the launch of the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa. Tomorrow, the work must start. I invite others who share our vision to join us and help us write a new chapter in the history of this great continent—a chapter not defined by what Africa lacks but by what Africa leads.”

“I ask IRENA, the Agency we created to accelerate the deployment of renewables worldwide, to lend its support to each of us individually, and to our collective efforts,” he also stated.

For his part, IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera said: “Although Africa has 17 percent of the world’s population, it has only received two percent of worldwide investment in renewable energy. This Partnership recognises a key opportunity for African nations to tap into their abundant renewable energy and mineral potential to drive green industrialisation locally while reinforcing the energy transition worldwide.”

In addition to Kenya, APRA includes Ethiopia, Namibia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Zimbabwe. The partnership focuses on three key areas: mobilising finance, providing technical assistance and capacity building, and engaging the private sector. Partners are inviting other countries as well as public and private sector organizations to join APRA to amplify efforts, lead ambitious climate action, and implement effective green energy strategies.

As a respected global centre of excellence, IRENA plays a leading role in accelerating the transition to the adoption of renewable energy around the world. In 2022, IRENA published its report Renewable Energy Market Analysis: Africa and its Regions which found that the energy transition – when accompanied by an appropriate policy basket – holds huge promise for Africa. Under IRENA’s 1.5°C Scenario pathway, the continent would achieve 6.4% higher GDP, 3.5% higher economy-wide jobs and a 25.4% higher welfare index than that realised under current plans, on average up to 2050.

With the UN Climate Change Conference COP28 set to take place in the UAE later this year, partnerships like APRA will play a crucial role in supporting African countries in achieving their development and climate goals.

The LEGO Group has pledged to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 as part of its continued efforts to reduce environmental impact. The company has submitted its intention to the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) and will work with the SBTi to develop a target which will cover Scope 1, 2 & 3 emissions*.

The pledge is an extension of its existing near-term climate target to reduce GHG emissions by 37% by 2032 from a 2019 base, which was previously approved by the SBTi.

Niels B Christiansen, CEO, the LEGO Group said: “Our immediate priority is to meet our 2032 carbon reduction targets and we’re making progress across a range of initiatives. This new, long-term goal will ensure that the decisions we make today will reduce our carbon footprint over the coming decades. It will also encourage future generations of LEGO employees, partners and suppliers to continue working with a sense of urgency to reduce the environmental impact of our business.

“We know that children are looking to us to do what’s right. Caring for the environment is one of their top concerns and we receive hundreds of letters a year with great ideas from kids on how we can make a difference. They are holding us to account, and we must set ambitious goals and take meaningful and lasting actions to protect their futures.”

The LEGO Group will seek to work with the SBTi to develop the net-zero target over the next two years, whilst developing a climate transition plan demonstrating a roadmap to achieving the target.

The LEGO Group plans to triple its investment in environmental sustainability over the next three years, particularly in areas that will help reduce GHG emissions, spending more than $1.4 billion on sustainability-related activities. This includes:

• Designing buildings and sites to be carbon neutral run. Factories and
  buildings will be designed and constructed to the highest
  environmental standards. For example, we are currently building two
  factories which are designed to be carbon neutral run once completed
  and aim to secure Gold LEED certification as the baseline standard on
  all new factories and buildings on our global campus.
• Increasing capacity and production of renewable energy at our sites.
  We will reduce absolute emissions across our manufacturing, stores
  and offices through increasing production of renewable energy in our
  factories and buying renewable energy for factories, offices and
  stores.
• Taking CO2 emissions into account across all business decisions. This
  includes Shadow Carbon Pricing on key investments, a Carbon KPI which
  will be tied to executive remuneration from 2024 and responsible
  travel policies to reduce the amount of employee travel, especially
  international air travel.
• Joining forces with suppliers to collectively reduce environmental
  impact. 98% of our GHG emissions come from outside our operations,
  from our supply chain. We continue to work with our suppliers, via
  our long-standing Engage-to-Reduce programme which was established in
  2014, to collectively lower their environmental impact.

Beyond this activity, the company will also continue to invest in initiatives to reduce carbon globally that may not count towards achieving the SBTi-approved target at this stage. This includes exploring compensation actions, such as supporting carbon capture programmes, and scaling up a mass balance approach to reduce reliance on fossil fuels as a raw material.

Christiansen said: “Our first priority is to measurably reduce our carbon emissions, but the challenge is vast, and we are taking steps across all areas of our business to reduce our environmental impact.”

(EAD) announced that the most advanced research vessel in the region, Jaywun, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the first phase of the Fisheries Resources Assessment Survey in the waters of the United Arab Emirates.

Moreover, the vessel also completed the first-ever comprehensive acoustic survey of the UAE’s waters. This ground-breaking two-week study was conducted in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman and used advanced technology to examine underwater ecosystems and assess the population and distribution of marine life.

The acoustic survey involves using sound waves to estimate the abundance and distribution of fish populations in the ocean.

Through analysis we can determine the size, density, and location of fish schools, helping to assess the health and status of fish stocks and helps us with sustainable fisheries management.

The vessel, manned by a team of EAD UAE nationals in collaboration with international experts, embarked on a remarkable 108-day sea voyage to conduct the survey, covering an impressive 324 sites across the UAE and gathering valuable data that will be used to evaluate and conserve the country’s marine resources. As part of the project nine UAE nationals were trained totalling 3,510 hours.

Over the course of the expedition, 1,500 samples were collected, enabling researchers to gain crucial insights into the region’s fish species and their habitats.

Additionally, in collaboration with G42 and OceanX, the research team accomplished the first eDNA (environmental DNA) baseline and genomic sequencing of fish species in the UAE’s waters. This innovative approach offers a deeper understanding of genetic diversity, allowing for more precise conservation and management strategies in the future.

Ahmed Al Hashmi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, said: “The successful completion of the first phase of the Fisheries Resources Assessment Survey marks a significant milestone for the UAE’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its marine environment. The invaluable data collected by the research vessel Jaywun and its dedicated team of UAE nationals will contribute to informed decision-making and sustainable management of the country’s fisheries resources. We have worked very hard over the past few years to increase our fish stocks as this is vital for food security and the conservation of our fish species.”

He added: “This is the first time an acoustic survey has been conducted of all of the UAE’s waters and it will help us get a much clearer and accurate picture of marine life in the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman. We developed Jaywun for the purpose of marine water research and these are the first of several other research projects which will be conducted onboard the vessel.”

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of EAD, the Agency commissioned Jaywun – the Middle East’s most advanced research vessel.

The 50-metre, state-of-the-art multipurpose marine conservation and fisheries vessel uses environment-friendly technologies to conduct specialised research in the Arabian Gulf – the world’s hottest sea and a natural climate change laboratory – as part of the UAE’s forward-looking science and innovation-based initiatives.

Jaywun is the most advanced research vessel in the region, with scientific equipment that includes: a remotely operated vehicle; trawling and trapping kit; seabed mapping and acoustics; CTD (conductivity, temperature, and depth sensing device); and scuba-diving facilities.

The vessel also houses six laboratories: a fisheries laboratory; an acoustic laboratory; a chemical analysis laboratory; a bio-physical laboratory; a wet laboratory and is also set up to operate an air quality laboratory.

With its high fuel efficiency and hydrodynamic performance that allows for less drag when sailing, Jaywun consumes less fuel and energy than other similarly sized vessels. It also reduces the amount of carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, which supports the UAE’s goals in addressing climate change.

The Agency has various research campaigns planned. These include: oceanic fisheries blue carbon assessments; climate change research; deep water habitat mapping and surveys (coral and seagrass); deep water megafauna surveys – including cetaceans, dugong, turtle, whale sharks – as well as invasive marine species surveys; marine water quality; air quality; plastics; and underwater heritage – which includes shipwrecks and pearl diving beds.

In addition, Jaywun will be supporting the UAE’s climate-neutrality-by-2050 goal by conducting research into oceanic blue carbon, a globally important initiative. Oceanic blue carbon includes the carbon stored through the actions of marine life, from krill to fish, sea turtles, and marine mammals. Understanding how marine vertebrates contribute towards carbon storage helps to recognise their potential role in climate change mitigation.

The conclusion of the activities of the second national workshop to update the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031, organized by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment over three days at the Habtoor Polo Resort in Dubai, has been marked recently.

The second national workshop aims to develop a national strategy and action plan that meets international commitments towards biodiversity and aligns with the leadership directions and national policies to achieve the UAE’s centennial goals. This is done by staying updated with the latest developments, discussing the outputs of the working groups regarding the update of the National Biodiversity Strategy, and exploring the best environmental practices related to the development and enhancement of this vital sector in the country, ensuring its sustainability. All of this falls within the framework of sustainability and the country’s preparations for the Conference of the Parties (COP28).

The workshop was attended by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Alhammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Biodiversity and Marine Life Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Geetha Nayak the Regional Coordinator for Biodiversity and Ecosystems at the United Nations Environment Programme West Asia Office, and representatives from several ministries including the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, as well as various local government entities, the academic sector, public benefit associations, and the private sector.

Effective Solutions

During the workshop, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Salman Alhammadi emphasised the UAE’s significant commitment to enhancing biodiversity, conserving endangered animal and plant species, and preserving crucial ecosystems that offer unique services such as carbon dioxide storage, air purification, natural disaster mitigation, food and medicine provision, among others. He highlighted the UAE’s efforts to shape a pioneering global model in this vital field. He also mentioned the UAE  is proud to showcase its efforts and practical solutions in formulating an ambitious national biodiversity strategy, especially with the upcoming COP28 conference in November.

His Excellency further explained that the workshop aims to set objectives and programmes that collectively strive to achieve the strategy’s vision of “Development and Investment under Sustainable Biodiversity.”

This workshop represents an opportunity to gather various sectors in the country, including government, academia, private, public benefit organisations, and related international organisations, to consolidate efforts to achieve national targets and international directions in line with the global biodiversity framework.

His Excellency added: “The issue of biodiversity and related wildlife conservation and development is of paramount importance in the UAE, starting with the efforts made by the UAE’s leadership in this field, including enacting legislation, monitoring its implementation, establishing protected areas, expanding them, and conserving endangered species.”

Facing Challenges

Workshop participants worked in groups to align national and international objectives, programmes, and initiatives with the goals and initiatives of the National Biodiversity Strategy, contributing to the development of a comprehensive national strategy. The workshop also aimed to address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss and confront and overcome challenges by integrating biodiversity values across all state sectors, reducing direct pressures on biodiversity, promoting sustainable use, and ensuring the sustainability of ecosystem services.

Local and International Experiences

During the national workshop, the outcomes of the first preparatory workshop for updating the National Biodiversity Strategy, which was held at the beginning of last June, were reviewed. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment presented an explanatory presentation about the efforts of the UAE, the state of biodiversity in the country, and the progress made in implementing the national strategy. The guiding manual for developing national strategies by the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs was also reviewed, in addition to getting acquainted with the efforts and experiences of some entities related to biodiversity in the country.

Several initiatives and projects related to biodiversity conservation were presented during the workshop by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Dubai Municipality, the Environment Authority – Fujairah, Dibba Al Fujairah Municipality, and the UAE Environment Working Group.

The workshop also introduced the experiences of several international organisations and their efforts in this field, including the United Nations Environment Programme – West Asia Office, in addition to discussing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in terms of objectives and indicator analysis.

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) organised 121 training courses and awareness sessions on occupational health and safety in the first half of 2023, with the participation of 2,233 employees from all divisions. DEWA also organised various activities in all aspects of occupational health and safety, supporting its ongoing efforts to promote a culture of occupational health and safety among employees and provide a healthy and safe work environment according to the highest international standards.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, emphasised that DEWA effectively implements quality, health, safety and environmental management systems as part of its Integrated Management Systems Policy, to enhance health and safety standards in all its projects and operations.

“We are keen to ensure that DEWA’s employees keep pace with the latest global developments related to occupational health and safety. This is part of our responsibility towards our employees, customers and society, to provide our services according to the highest standards of availability, reliability, quality and efficiency. We achieve this through continuous training, knowledge sharing, and discussing mechanisms for improving the health and safety of human resources, ways to improve productivity, operational efficiency and sustainability, to ensure a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come,” added Al Tayer.

Dr. Yousef Al Akraf, Executive Vice President of Business Support and Human Resources at DEWA, said that DEWA is certified by the British Safety Council as an occupational health and safety training centre. DEWA is the first government department in Dubai to be registered with the Council. Employees who undergo the training by DEWA staff are awarded credit certificates in occupational health and safety from the British Safety Council.

In cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, the Ajman Center for Social Responsibility (Ajman CSR) organised an introductory workshop on the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change “COP 28”, which will be hosted by the UAE from November 30 to December 12, 2023, in Expo City Dubai, as a global conference that unites efforts to address the effects of climate change.

The workshop is intended to make private sector establishments aware of the preparation opportunities to participate in the “COP 28” and contribute to supporting the UAE climate efforts. The workshop was attended by Nasser Al Dhafri, CEO of the Ajman CSR, Aisha Hilal, Director of the Ajman CSR, and a group of business owners and officials of private sector establishments. The workshop was presented by Hanan Sakr, Head of Private Sector for COP28.

At the beginning of the workshop, Nasser Al Dhafri welcomed the attendees and explained that the workshop is a part of the Ajman CSR of the Ajman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) to encourage economic establishments to adopt social responsibility practices and standards of sustainable development and green economy and to motivate the business community in Ajman to participate in the global event and enhance the reputation of the UAE in the field of climate action.

The workshop presented an overview of the “COP 28” and the accompanying activities, opportunities for private sector establishments to participate in many events, and mechanisms for benefiting from the innovative initiatives and solutions presented during the conference activities. It also dealt with a wide range of best practices and positive efforts concerned with economic growth and increasing productivity while supporting climate preservation. In addition, the “COP 28” provides an exceptional global platform for developments in the renewable and clean energy sector.

The attendees were briefed on the volunteer opportunities available at the “COP 28” and opportunities for educational institutions to participate. Business owners also reviewed a number of institutional initiatives and best innovative practices.

For her part, Aisha Hilal confirmed that the Ajman CSR seeks to intensify efforts during the current period in cooperation with its strategic partners to direct private sector establishments to interact with the “COP 28” and to contribute to supporting the UAE trends in the field of sustainability and resource conservation, and unifying efforts in putting forward initiatives and proactive plans that support the UAE efforts in climate action and reducing carbon emissions.

H&M Group has published a Sustainable Finance Framework encompassing a new Green Finance Framework and an updated Sustainability-Linked Finance Framework. 

With a combined Green Finance Framework and Sustainability-Linked Finance Framework, H&M Group further aligns its financing strategy with its sustainability roadmap.

H&M Group’s Framework provides an overview of eligible green projects, as well as industry-leading goals for recycled materials and GHG emissions reduction.

The Sustainable Finance Framework offers flexibility in the issue of financial instruments, including green finance and sustainability-linked finance instruments.

The Green Finance Framework specifies eligible green projects under the International Capital Market Association (ICMA) categories Circular Economy, Green Buildings, Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Water Management and Wastewater Management. The Sustainability-Linked Finance Framework includes 2030-target for recycled materials in commercial goods and H&M Group’s ambitious Science-Based Targets for GHG emissions reductions.

 “With this framework we further incorporate our sustainability journey into our financing strategy by providing investors with a transparent view into our roadmap, associated investments and key goals towards becoming a circular and net-zero emissions company by 2040.” 

Adam Karlsson, CFO H&M Group

S&P Global Ratings has reviewed the Framework and provided a second-party opinion confirming alignment with the ICMA Green Bond Principles 2021 and Sustainability-Linked Bond Principles 2023 as well as the LMA Green Loan Principles 2023 and Sustainability-Linked Loan principles 2023.  

More information on the Framework is available here: https://hmgroup.com/investors/sustainable-finance/

This information is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall it constitute an offer, solicitation of an offer or sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.